JD 955 FEL bucket problem

noose · Nov 23, 2015

I've just purchased a used (and cheap) John Deere 955 and the bucket has some issues. The FEL raises and lowers perfectly. The farther the bucket is moved down toward dumping, the less likely it is to return. If about 1/2 way, a little jiggle on the control arm will bring it back up. All the way and it requires putting the bucket on the ground and backing up to get it to roll up again. Any suggestions on the first place to look? Given the bucket works in part of the range, I'd have to think this is more linkage or connectivity related rather than hydraulic or valve but who knows... I'm looking for some suggestions to try first before I take it to the dealership.

Thanks!

buickanddeere · Nov 23, 2015

Perhaps a failed seal(s) in the bucket hydraulic Rams . On occasion the lining inside a hydraulic hose will flap loose . Making a rather effective one way valve inside the hose.

zzvyb6 · Nov 23, 2015

Sounds like one of the curl cylinders is fighting the other. Any chance the hose connections are backwards on one side? I'd pull the pins and see if one extends while the other retracts. You will have to figure out how to reconnect them, though.